Send package to Bahrain
Compare shipping solutions for Manama and all of Bahrain
A package destined for Bahrain arrives in a small but economically important island nation in the Persian Gulf. Most time-sensitive shipments arrive via the international airport. Sea freight, on the other hand, is particularly suitable for pallets, machinery, and larger quantities of goods.
- Compare prices and expected delivery times
- Check parcel, express and freight offers
- Prepare broadcasts digitally and clearly
- Capture Bahrain-specific customs data
- Import costs are regulated using DDP or DAP.
- Use complete building, street, and block numbers
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Well prepared, send to Bahrain
For shipments to Bahrain, transport, electronic customs declaration, and delivery are closely intertwined. Therefore, it is advisable to compile all the necessary information before collection.
Select the service that best suits your shipment:
A document requires a different solution than a machine component or pallet. The offer comparison sorts available services by price, lead time, and shipment type.
Simplify OFOQ processing:
A clear description of the goods, the correct HS code and a verifiable value support the importer or customs agent in the electronic declaration.
Distribute import costs clearly:
There is no general duty-free allowance for B2B goods. However, DDP or DAP terms allow you to specify in advance who will bear customs duties, VAT, and handling fees.
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Important information about customs and import duties
Why DDP could be interesting for Bahrain
For DDP to Bahrain The sender bears the contractually agreed import costs. Ideally, this means the recipient does not have to make any unexpected payments before the goods are released or delivered.
This is especially helpful in the following situations:
- Orders from online shops
- Spare parts with tight delivery deadlines
- Gifts to business partners
- calculated project deliveries
- recurring B2B shipments
Since June 14, 2026, a de minimis threshold of 100 Bahraini dinars has applied to B2C and C2C shipments. Customs duties and a 10 percent value-added tax may be levied on shipments exceeding this value. For B2B shipments, however, there is no general de minimis threshold. Therefore, transparent cost regulations for business deliveries are particularly important.
DDP must still be appropriate for the goods and the chosen service provider. Furthermore, the import requires an identifiable importer. Permits or certificates of conformity remain necessary as well.
Before booking, it should therefore be clarified whether customs duties, VAT, presentation fees, and broker costs are fully included. If DDP is not offered, DAP is usually the appropriate alternative.
Customs duties on shipments to Bahrain
Bahrain is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council's customs union. A general customs duty of [amount missing] applies to numerous goods from countries outside the GCC. 5 percentHowever, depending on the customs tariff number, different rates or customs exemptions may apply.
The specific customs duty amount depends on:
- Product type and HS code
- Customs value of the shipment
- Country of manufacture and origin
- Freight and insurance costs
- private or business import
- possible excise taxes
- Permits and customs exemptions
Significantly higher burdens can arise for alcohol, tobacco products, and other excise goods. Therefore, the general rate of 5 percent cannot be applied across the board to all goods.
Products originating in Germany or the European Union do not automatically qualify for preferential customs treatment. The European Commission lists Bahrain as having no applicable preferential trade agreement. Therefore, a German shipping location does not replace an examination of the Bahraini customs tariff.
The appropriate sentence and responsible approval authorities are shown in the Tariff Finder of Bahrain Customs. For difficult products, the importer can also request a more binding preliminary ruling on classification.
Value Added Tax (VAT) on imports to Bahrain
The standard VAT rate in Bahrain is 10 percentIt has been in effect since January 1, 2022, and generally also covers imported goods.
The invoice amount alone is not the determining factor for the calculation. The basis of assessment can include, in particular:
- Customs value of the goods
- Transport and insurance costs
- calculated import duty
- Excise tax, if applicable
- additional costs to the first destination
As a result, the total tax burden often exceeds a simple calculation of 10 percent of the purchase price. Customs officials can also verify the value if the invoice and market value do not plausibly match.
Certain basic foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, and medical products can be taxed at zero percent. However, this is conditional on the specific product meeting the published requirements. Therefore, an exemption should never be inferred solely from the product name.
Current explanations are contained in the VAT Guide for Imports and Exports the National Bureau for Revenue. The agency also confirms the regular tax rate of 10 percent.
Special customs regulations for Bahrain
Customs clearance in Bahrain is fully digital. However, the recipient remains actively involved. Especially for business shipments, the importer, trade registration, and required approvals should be finalized before dispatch.
Electronic registration via OFOQ
The importer, their representative, or an authorized customs agent prepares the import declaration electronically. The single-window system is used for this purpose. OFOQ 2The system brings together information, documents, and approvals from various authorities.
The foreign sender does not independently declare the goods as a Bahraini importer. However, they must provide all the data required by the courier or customs agent for the declaration.
Value limits since June 2026
For private B2C and C2C shipments, the de minimis threshold was increased from 300 to 14 June 2026. 100 Bahraini dinars reduced. Shipments of 100 BHD or more are subject to customs duties and 10 percent VAT, depending on the goods.
Below the threshold, private shipments can be processed more simply and duty-free. However, this does not automatically apply to prohibited, restricted, or excise goods. Furthermore, there is no corresponding duty-free threshold for B2B shipments.
Required shipping information
For a swift processing, the following should be available:
- Commercial or pro forma invoice
- detailed English product description
- HS code per item
- Individual and total value with currency
- Country of manufacture and origin
- Quantity and intended use
- Net and gross weight
- Transport and insurance costs
- Packing list for multiple packages
- Air waybill or bill of lading
- complete importer data
- Commercial register number for companies
- Import permits, if required
Bahrain Customs describes the procedure on its website. commercial importAccess to the customs platform is via the OFOQ Single Window.
Parcel shipping from Germany to Bahrain
Documents, spare parts, and merchandise are usually transported between Germany and Bahrain by air. This is particularly practical for small and urgent shipments. For heavy pallets or complete systems, however, sea freight is a more suitable alternative.
Paket International provides a clear comparison of available offers. Dimensions, weight, pick-up location, and recipient address are all factored into the selection process. This helps you determine whether a fast express service or a more economical transport solution is the better fit.
For goods, the quality of the customs data is also crucial. The Bahraini importer needs a clear invoice, the correct HS code, and any applicable product releases. Therefore, this information should be finalized before the labels are printed.
Cost allocation is also part of the planning. With DAP, the recipient normally pays the import duties. A confirmed DDP solution, however, can allocate these costs to the sender.
Common causes of delays in Bahrain
Many delays don't begin at the airport, but with missing or contradictory shipping information. Even an unclear product description can lead to the HS code or authorization not being clearly determined.
Common mistakes include:
- The invoice only says "parts" or "samples".
- The HS code and the actual type of goods do not match.
- The stated value of the goods does not seem plausible.
- Shipping costs or currency are missing.
- The recipient cannot be uniquely identified in OFOQ.
- One company is missing its commercial register number.
- Product approval was requested too late.
- The new 100 BHD limit has been misinterpreted.
- A B2B shipment was treated like a private package.
- The building, street, or block number is incomplete.
- The recipient's phone number is unreachable.
- Batteries or hazardous materials were not correctly declared.
In such cases, customs will request further documentation. This can lead to additional costs due to waiting time, storage, and reprocessing. In the worst-case scenario, the import will be refused.
Therefore, compare the invoice, package contents, and electronic shipping data. The recipient should also be prepared to answer any questions from the courier.
Frequently shipped goods to Bahrain
Bahrain's economy encompasses industry, energy, construction, trade, and financial services. Shipments from Germany are correspondingly diverse. In addition to spare parts, high-quality capital goods and consumer products are frequently required.
Typical goods for shipping include:
- Machines and production components
- Pumps, valves and fittings
- Measurement, control and testing technology
- Electrical components and control cabinets
- Vehicle and commercial vehicle parts
- Tools and workshop equipment
- Air conditioning, cooling and building technology
- Computers, servers and accessories
- Medical and laboratory products
- Hotel and catering supplies
- Cosmetics, clothing and accessories
- Samples, trade fair supplies and business documents
However, not all goods can be imported without additional inspection. Permits may be required for food, plants, animal products, pharmaceuticals, radio equipment, or chemicals. Batteries and other hazardous materials also require an approved transport route.
The invoice should clearly name each product in English. Therefore, include the material, function, model, and quantity. Descriptions such as "spare parts," "sample," or "gift" are too vague for accurate classification.
Shipping information: Bahrain
Which shipping method is suitable for Bahrain?
Bahrain is compact and has an international airport as well as a modern commercial port. Therefore, the shipping method can be selected primarily based on time constraints, weight, and the value of the goods.
Document and express shipping
Contracts, certificates, and urgent small items are usually sent as express shipments. Transport is by air freight. After import, the courier handles delivery in Manama, Muharraq, or another region.
International parcel shipping
A standard parcel is suitable for less urgent goods. While it is usually cheaper than express shipping, delivery time, local handover, and tracking options can vary considerably.
Classic air freight
Larger spare parts or time-critical pallets can be booked as air freight. In this case, the carrier, importer, and customs broker are coordinated before departure.
Sea freight and containers
Machinery, industrial supplies, and large shipments of goods can be imported via Khalifa Bin Salman Port. For heavy loads, sea freight is often more economical, but this requires more time.
The following solutions are also possible:
- DAP or verified DDP shipment
- Pallet and groupage shipping
- temperature-controlled transport
- approved transport of dangerous goods
- Special transport for sensitive technology
- combined sea-air or sea-road transport
Transport routes between Germany and Bahrain
Air freight is the dominant mode of transport for parcels. Large cargo shipments, on the other hand, often arrive in the kingdom by ship. Once cleared, the final delivery stage is relatively short.
Air traffic via Bahrain International Airport
Express parcels and air freight reach Bahrain via the international airport near Muharraq. According to the airport, the cargo terminal there covers 25.000 square meters and supports import, export, transshipment, and other freight services.
After unloading, security checks and customs clearance take place. The carrier then hands the shipment over to the local delivery service.
Sea freight via Khalifa Bin Salman Port
The most important commercial port is located in Hidd. It handles containers, general cargo, and RoRo traffic. It is also only about 13 kilometers from the airport.
Sea freight from Europe is often routed through major European and regional transshipment ports. Therefore, transit time includes more than just the sea voyage itself. Pre- and post-carriage, transshipment, and port handling are also factored in.
Road transport within Bahrain
Manama, Muharraq, Riffa, Hidd, and the industrial areas are connected by road. Since the country is small, the inland leg of the journey usually doesn't cause delays of several days. However, island connections, roadworks, or company delivery windows can affect the delivery time.
There is also a road connection to Saudi Arabia via the King Fahd Causeway. However, separate transit and import procedures apply for regional onward routes.
Import duties on shipments to Bahrain
The invoice value alone does not show the final cost of the import. Depending on the product and the handling method, several additional items may be added.
Possible cost components include:
- Import duty, often 5 percent
- Value added tax of the regular 10 percent
- Excise tax on certain goods
- Fees for customs declaration
- Presentation or disbursement costs of the carrier
- Costs of a customs agent
- Testing and approval fees
- Storage fees for delayed release
Since June 2026, a value threshold of 100 BHD has applied to B2C and C2C shipments. Customs duties and VAT are levied on shipments exceeding this amount, depending on the classification. For B2B shipments, however, duties are incurred regardless of this de minimis threshold.
For example: The customs duty, which varies depending on the product, may first be levied on the customs value. Then, value-added tax (VAT) is calculated on its legally applicable base amount. Therefore, simply adding 5 percent and 10 percent does not always result in the exact final amount.
With DAP (Delivered at Place), the service provider typically requests payment from the recipient. With DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), the agreed amounts are charged to the sender. Additional services offered by the broker should be reviewed separately in both cases.
How much does shipping to Bahrain cost?
A fixed flat rate would be of little use. Even a few extra centimeters of cardboard can change the price. Furthermore, express parcel, standard service, and freight differ considerably.
The transport price is primarily influenced by:
- actual weight
- calculated volumetric weight
- Length, width and height
- Pickup location in Germany
- Express, parcel or freight service
- Value of goods and transport insurance
- Fuel and security surcharges
- Dangerous goods and special handling
- desired additional services
For lightweight but large packages, volumetric weight is often a crucial factor. Therefore, eliminate unnecessary empty space without compromising product protection. This saves cargo space and can reduce the price.
In addition to transport costs, customs duties, VAT, and handling fees may apply. A lack of clearance can also be expensive, as storage costs continue to accrue during the inspection process.
For accurate quote comparison, dimensions and weight should be precise. Please also provide the contents of the shipment and the complete recipient address. This will ensure that only services matching your specific shipment are displayed.
E-commerce shipping to Bahrain
Bahrain boasts a digitally savvy customer base and short distances within the country. However, for international online shops, import processing remains crucial. Customers expect clear information regarding the total price and delivery.
The following information should therefore be recorded during the ordering process:
- Buyer's full name
- Mobile phone number and email address
- Building and street number
- City and three- or four-digit postal code
- exact product name in English
- HS code and country of origin
- Selling price and currency
- Quantity and weight
How to correctly display the 100 BHD limit
For B2C orders under 100 BHD, de minimis treatment may be possible. However, exceptions apply to restricted or taxable product groups. Furthermore, multiple orders or a different customs valuation can alter the outcome.
Shops should expect to pay customs duties and 10% VAT on orders over 100 BHD. Therefore, a note at checkout is advisable. This value limit does not apply to B2B orders.
DDP improves price transparency
A confirmed DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) solution can already include duties and taxes in the final price. This reduces the likelihood of the customer receiving an unexpected payment request upon delivery. If only DAP (Delivered at Place) is possible, anticipated import costs should be clearly explained.
Shop and shipping interfaces transfer product data directly to the label and invoice. This results in fewer transmission errors. Furthermore, tracking numbers and shipping status can be provided to the buyer more quickly.
What is particularly important when sending parcels to Bahrain
The compact size of the country facilitates delivery. However, the address system requires precise numbers. Furthermore, heat and product-related approvals can affect shipping schedules.
Address including building, road and postcode
Bahrain uses three- or four-digit postal codes. The Universal Postal Union recommends the following order:
- Name of the addressee
- House, building or business number
- Street name or street number
- City with postal code
- BAHRAIN as the last line
One possible pattern is:
Ahmed Hassan
Building 916
road 2035
RIFFA 926
BAHRAIN
For courier shipments, please also provide your block number, mobile phone number, and email address. This will help the driver to more easily identify the address and contact the recipient if necessary.
Check product approvals before shipping
Special requirements may apply to:
- Foods and dietary supplements
- Plants, seeds and plant products
- Animals and animal products
- Medicines and medical devices
- Cosmetics and care products
- Radio and telecommunications equipment
- Chemicals and hazardous substances
- Weapons, ammunition and safety equipment
- Alcohol, tobacco and e-cigarette products
- Drones and certain camera technology
- lithium batteries
The Tariff Finder of Bahrain Customs In addition to the customs duty rate, the customs authority also lists the responsible control authorities. Furthermore, customs publishes an overview of... prohibited and restricted goods.
Protect sensitive goods from heat
High temperatures in summer can put a strain on goods during handling and delivery. This applies to items such as cosmetics, food, adhesives, chemicals, and medical products. If temperature limits apply, a standard parcel may not be sufficient.
Shipping service provider for Bahrain
Several international carriers serve Bahrain directly or via regional networks. However, which service is available depends on the departure point, weight, contents, and desired transit time.
DHL Parcel International
DHL Parcel International This option is suitable for planned shipments without tight deadlines. Bahrain Post can handle local processing for mail routes.
DHL Express
DHL Express Bahrain Offers international options for parcels and pallets. The express service is particularly suitable for time-critical documents, spare parts, and business goods.
UPS
UPS Bahrain is represented at Bahrain International Airport by an authorized service provider. International shipping and tracking solutions are offered.
FedEx
FedEx Bahrain Offers services for documents, parcels, and freight. Different product lines are available for shipments up to 68 kilograms as well as heavier freight.
Aramex
Aramex Bahrain It has a strong regional network. The provider offers express, parcel and logistics solutions as well as local shipment tracking.
Bahrain Post
Bahrain Post handles international letters and parcels within its state-owned postal network. The status of postal items can be checked via the... national tracking service check.
Freight forwarders for air and sea freight
For pallets, machinery, or project loads, a freight forwarder is often more suitable than a parcel service. They organize the main transport, import clearance, and, if necessary, special transport to the recipient.
Before making your choice, you should compare:
- Total price and possible surcharges
- Regular runtime and departure frequency
- Weight and dimension limits
- liability and insurance
- Support at OFOQ
- DDP or DAP availability
- Acceptance of regulated goods
- Scope of shipment tracking
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping
How do I send a package from Germany to Bahrain?
Enter the pickup address, recipient address, dimensions, weight, and contents into the shipping cost calculator. Then select an available service. For goods, you can also create a commercial or pro forma invoice.
How long does it take for a package to arrive in Bahrain?
Express services usually reach Bahrain faster than standard services. However, the actual delivery time depends on the pick-up location, flight connections, and customs clearance. Missing documents will extend the delivery time.
How is the shipping price calculated?
Dimensions, weight, service, and additional services determine the price. For bulky boxes, the volumetric weight can be higher than the actual weight. A compact box is therefore often cheaper.
Which invoice does customs need?
A commercial invoice is required for every sale. A pro forma invoice can be used for free samples, gifts, or replacement deliveries. However, it must still include a realistic customs value.
What information should be included on the invoice?
Specify the product, material, function, HS code, value, currency, quantity, weight, and origin. The sender, recipient, and invoice reason should also be clearly identifiable.
What are the customs duties in Bahrain?
For many goods from countries outside the GCC, the rate is 5 percent. However, deviations are possible. Therefore, each item must be checked against the current Bahraini tariff.
What is the VAT rate?
The standard rate is 10 percent. Certain basic foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, and medical products can be treated at zero percent. Precise product classification is crucial.
Is there a tax-free allowance for private parcels?
For B2C and C2C shipments, the de minimis threshold has been 100 BHD (Broadband Handling Units) since June 14, 2026. Customs duties and VAT may apply above 100 BHD. Exceptions apply, among other things, to restricted product categories.
Does the 100 BHD limit also apply to B2B?
No. There is no general de minimis threshold for business shipments. Customs duties and taxes can therefore be charged regardless of the value of the goods.
What is OFOQ?
OFOQ 2 is Bahrain's electronic single window for customs procedures. Importers, representatives, or customs agents submit the import declaration and required documents through it.
Can I book DDP to Bahrain?
This is possible if the carrier, type of goods, and import situation support the service. The sender then pays the agreed import costs. Product approvals are still required, however.
Who pays the duties at DAP?
With DAP (Delivered at Place), the recipient is usually responsible for customs duties, VAT, and local clearance fees. They often have to pay these charges before the shipment is delivered.
Are gifts automatically duty-free?
No. Simply labeling gifts as "gifts" does not exempt them from these requirements. Value, contents, and shipping method remain crucial. Therefore, even personal gifts require a precise description and a plausible assessment.
What does a complete address look like?
Include your name, building number, street, city, and a three- or four-digit postal code. For courier packages, also include your block number and mobile phone number.
Which products require an import permit?
This can affect, for example, food, plants, medicines, cosmetics, radio technology, chemicals, or drones. The HS code often determines which authority is responsible.
Am I allowed to send lithium batteries to Bahrain?
Transport is only possible if the battery type, watt-hours, packaging, and carrier specifications are compatible. Stricter conditions apply to loose batteries than to batteries in devices.
Why is customs holding up a shipment?
Often, the invoice, HS code, importer information, or product approvals are missing. A suspiciously low value of goods also triggers inquiries. The recipient should therefore respond to messages from the carrier.
